Field evaluation of selected monitoring methods for phosgene in air

Four selected methods have been evaluated and field tested as candidates for a specific, continuous procedure for monitoring phosgene in air at or below concentrations of 0.05 ppm. The methods evaluated were automated colorimetry, gas chromatography, infrared spectrophotometry and a recently developed paper tape monitor. A standard manual colorimetric procedure was used as a reference method. The paper tape, infrared and automated gas chromatographic techniques most closely fulfilled the criteria set forth for an “ideal”, selective, continuous procedure for phosgene.